Where to watch the Tour de France in London

Cycling’s biggest event wheels into town this time next week with reports of more than a million people expected to turn out to see the peleton heading through town from Cambridge.

The race winds through Essex and East London on Monday (July 7) before shooting through the city, past landmarks such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace.

The riders will zoom across the city between around 3.10 and 4pm, thought the 180-float publicity caravan rolls through a couple of hours earlier.

There are a number of places you can go for a good view, and Vibe’s picked out 7 of the best.

The Mall

Just like all of the capital’s big races, The Mall is the effectively Stage 3’s finishing straight and, as such, will be prime position. Expect to see riders around 3.40pm.

Trafalgar Square

This year’s tour will feature a trio of fan parks, with big screens and plenty of fun all weekend and Monday.

At the top of the O2

With the race winding its way across the northern banks of the Thames, you’ll need a good vantage point to see any cyclists from south east London. And where better than on a climb to the top of the O2? You’ll want to time it right, though.

St James’ Park

Chris Froome et al will pedal down Birdcage Walk and along the bottom of the park before heading up the Mall, so from the leafiness of St James’ Park you should get a good long view.

Westminster Bridge

As well as the stunning views of Parliament, the London Eye and Big Ben, you’ll be able to see the riders come up Victoria Embankment and head down towards The Mall.

Buckingham Palace

If it’s good enough for the Queen, it’ll do for you. In all probability you’ll have to wait outside to see the lycra warriors fly past.

On TV

It won't have the atmosphere, but you won't need to worry about the train ticket, the weather or the crowds and you'll see more. Catch stage 3 live in ITV4 from noon to 4.30pm